Monday, November 27, 2017

When the Makeup Wars! Team decided to feature Winter Beauty Must-Haves, I decided to expand my selection to Beauty & Household Must-Haves for the Holidays. I came to this decision because I wanted to include things that I would covet, but that my guests would enjoy as well. Therefore, I included some lovely items for my house and bathroom that would benefit everyone in the house– as well as a few fantastic beauty finds. I want my house to be warm and welcoming, and it is important that it is a relaxing oasis in the midst of the holiday hustle and bustle for my guests and family.

Carole Shashona is a true visionary, Feng Shui grand master and artist. Her candles and mists transform the home into the most beautiful and peaceful sanctuary, and they are absolutely perfect additions to the home for the holidays. Housed is elegant cobalt blue glass, your guests will fall in love with these twinkling gems.

About Carole Shashona,

Fashion stylist, Feng Shui grand master, and designer Carole Shashona launched her eponymous fine jewelry line as a way to bring positive energy into her clients’ lives. Influenced by Shashona’s own spiritual journey, the label’s gold and sterling silver pieces feature revered motifs such as stars, the Evil Eye, and Buddha. These stunning necklaces, earrings, rings, and cuffs are often accented with the jeweler’s signature black diamond Om coin, which is meant to confer blessings on the wearer.

The fragrances behind Purify & Empower are meant to be used together to dispel negative energy & create positivity and abundance. Much in the way that some use Basil to stimulate energy, the Empower line combines mandarin citrus and basil for a rejuvenating and cleansing sensation that creates positivity and abundance once the space has been purified and "neutralized."

Carole Shashona Empower Candle ($70.00 for 7 oz. from Barneys New York): Much in the way that some use Basil to stimulate energy, the Empower line combines mandarin citrus and basil for a rejuvenating and cleansing sensation that creates positivity and abundance once the space has been purified and "neutralized." Yang Energy Scents: Mandarin Citrus, and basil Personality: proud, fearless, undaunted, problem solving, ambitious, leader.

Create a relaxing atmosphere with our state-of-the-art electric cool mist aromatherapy Bluetooth Diffuser. It has everything you could possibly need featuring bluetooth technology for music play and alarm functions.

These oils have a multitude of therapeutic properties and uses that can enhance wellness, purify your home or office, and inspire positive emotions. Eight pure and therapeutic grade essential Oils Essential Oils have stress alleviating and calming properties Can also be used to create nontoxic household cleaners and beauty products.

Safety: When using essential oils around children, pets, or pregnant women, please make sure they are safe to use prior to diffusing.

Glass Canisters from Crate & Barrel (Shown: Small, Medium and Large): I searched for the perfect glass canisters for my bathroom for a very long time before I found the loveliest ones from Crate & Barrel. So far I have three in small, medium and large, and they are the perfect sizes to store cotton balls, pads, Q-Tips, soaps and anything else that you want at your fingertips.

French Kitchen Marble 2-Tier Server ($59.95 from Crate & Barrel): This kitchen server was the perfect pick for storage on my on top of my toilet tank. Below the two 24" shelves there was another great opportunity that offers amply space for wash cloths and hand towels. This French Marble 2-Tier Server was the perfect choice to store lotions, soaps, extra rolls of toilet paper, and anything else that you need to access with ease. 14.25" W x 7" D x 10" H

TIP: If you are seeking great storage solutions, be sure to expand your search beyond the most obvious choices. For instance, this 2-tier server was intended for kitchen use, but it provided a perfect storage solution to maximize the vertical space above the toilet. Re-purposing products intended for other uses is among the most resourceful ways to exponentially increase your chances of finding the perfect storage solutions.

French Kitchen Marble Fruit Bowl ($49.95 from Crate & Barrel): This stunning while marble bowl is another example of something conceived of for the kitchen that is perfectly at-home in the bathroom. It is a perfect place to store extra soaps, tools and anything else that you want to share with your guests.

According to Crate & Barrel,

A substantial bowl of cool white marble with unique grey veining rests atop a traditional pedestal for a grand presentation of fruits and decorative objects. Note that exposure to the acid of cut citrus fruits can stain marble. Because marble is a natural product, veining and coloring variations will occur; see additional images for examples. 10" dia. x 4.75"H (106 oz.)

S'well Water Bottles ($25.00-$45.00 each from S'well, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's, Birchbox, Athleta Gap and The Container Store): S'well Water Bottles are ingeniously made from BPA-free, double-walled stainless steel that is so well insulated that it keeps liquids cold for 24 hours, and hot for 12 hours. They are so well insulated that no matter how cold the liquid inside, there is absolutely no condensation outside. I purchased the 17 oz. and 25 oz. sizes, and I use the larger one so that I wouldn't have to refill my bottle as frequently, but prefer the 17 oz. size when I want something smaller, and I have access to quick and easy refills. However, I definitely think that the 9 oz. is a little too small for the purposes of staying hydrated throughout the day. They are also perfect to have on hand when you are out and about during the holidays, and I don't leave home without at least one of them on hand!

They come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, and are available in 3 sizes (25 oz, 17 oz. and 9 oz.). While they are by no means the least expensive water bottles on the market, I assure that they will last a very very long time, and are worth every penny.

Moda Metallics 7Pc Gold Total Face Kit ($19.99 from Moda): This affordable vegan brush set features six brushes made from Synthetic Filament that are great for travel. The brushes are soft, and feel silky smooth against the skin, and yet they are firm enough to effectively lay down and blend makeup effortlessly. The innovative case flips over and becomes a stand that is very convenient while you are using your set. Leave an extra set in your guest bathroom for an overnight guest who traveled very light!

The smooth, round edge makes this brush ideal for lining and defining your lips. This luxurious, 100% vegan line includes waterproof, textured metallic handles made with professional quality fibers.

Cloud 10 Custom Shampoo and Conditioner ($25.95 for a 10 oz. Shampoo and 10 oz. Conditioner from Cloud 10): This fully customizable shampoo and conditioner set allows you to select the proper formula for the needs of your hair. You simply answer 5 questions to let them know what you like and need in a shampoo and conditioner– including the type of lather and scent that you prefer. They even let you choose the label style!

According to Cloud 10,

A customized and personalized hair care line has been released -- introducing Cloud 10 Customized Hair Care, created by QVC Founder Joe Segel. This line is designed for the Millennial consumers and addresses their hair care needs (from more shine to less frizz to stronger hair to better curl definition. There are nine custom formulas available and the Cloud 10 customer can select their preferred scent (coconut, lavender, jasmine, citrus or vanilla). Users answer 5 short questions and the ideal formulas for their distinct hair profile are revealed. They even get to select lather preference.

The customer also customizes their bottles for shampoo and conditioner by selecting preferred label and adding their name/phrase to bottle.

Hotheads Speed Brushes ($24.29-$41.29 from Hotheads Hairbrush): This round brush features a slight diagonal bristle pattern that alternates Black Boar hair, White Boar hair and flexible Nylon bristles, and it effectively detangles hair, and is a very effective tool for blow-outs.

According to Hotheads,

A favorite of salon professionals, the Speed Brush collection offers the perfect tools for fine, normal to thick and chemically treated hair. Their patented shape has 3 major benefits: focuses air flow to speed up drying time; helps prevent the hair from tangling; and organizes the sections of hair for easier blow-drying. One type of bristle gives you shine but 3 types offer triple the shine factor. The hair floats over the bristles helping prevent heat damage.

Using a 3D Bristle pattern (Black Boar for control and tension; White Boar for polish and shine; and flexible Nylon for penetration), Hotheads’ Speed Brush also uses Thermal Conductive Technology for faster heating and cooling. The mineral compound heats to a top temperature in as little as 18 seconds. This helps speed drying time by 50-60 percent but it’s the cooling that actually sets the hair – leaving you with a gorgeous mane in less time.

The Speed Brush collection helps create volume, curls or a smooth, sleek finish. Will not tangle in the hair due to the design of the barrel/head of the brush. You’ll also experience less damage and color fading – leaving hair with a professional-like finish.

Hotheads The Grooming Paddle Plus Hair Brush ($26.24 for the large paddle and $19.50 for the Mini G from Hotheads): I seldom blow out my hair, but I do use these brushes nearly on a daily basis. I carry the Mini G in my travel bag, and have the large one next to my sink for ease of use. The bristles are firm enough to massage the scalp, untangle knots, and of course to effectively style the hair for blow-outs.

According to Hotheads,

Designed for blow drying styling & grooming Features the unique 3D BRISTLE PATTERN available in all Professional HOTHEADS hair brushes Balanced Finger Grip position allows Maximum Performance “S” shaped handle creates Ease & Balance Image-2 Image-3 Regular use of the Paddle brush helps improve MICRO CIRCULATION and the quality and health of the hair and scalp.

Milk + Sass The Macaron for Hair ($12.99-$14.00 each from Milk + Sass, Amazon and Urban Outfitters): This unique travel brush, which looks like a large macaron, is so convenient for traveling, and it even has a built-in mirror! It comes in six colors: Raspberry, Black Licorice Framboise, Mint Citron, Lemon Pistachio, Rose Petal and Lavender. Leave a few in your guest bathroom for your overnight guests.

According to Milk + Sass,

In case you’re unfamiliar with the Macaron, the removable cover of the brush protects bristles from being bent, broken and dirtied inside your bag, and offers a compact mirror for easy styling on-the-go. The ergonomically designed shape allows for optimum comfort and balance in any hand, compared to conventional hairbrushes. Not to mention, it’s shaped like a delicious macaron!

Features:
• Strategically placed smart bristles allow for gentle, damage-free detangling, 2x faster than traditional hairbrushes
• Reduces hair breakage, pulling, tangles and frizz
• Made for every hair age, type, and texture, be it wet or dry, curly or straight, thin or thick, natural or synthetic, young or mature

Mont Bleu Glass Nail Files with Swarovski Crystals (14,00 € from Mont Bleu and $34.00 for a set of three from Amazon): Mont Bleu makes high quality tempered glass nail and foot files, that are forged in the Czech Republic. Their Swarovski Crystal encrusted files are especially luxe, and they are the perfect accessory for every bathroom, and the perfect gift for the beauty-lovers on your list who have everything!.

Mont Bleu Glass Foot File (16,00 € from Mont Bleu and $15.99 from Amazon): Their foot file is, hands-down, the best foot file that I have used. It effectively removes calluses and is so easy to clean with soap and water.

According to Mont Bleu,This Original Glass Foot File has 2-sided abrasive surface: one rough for the callus and one smooth for a velvet-like finish on your heels. It's designed to remove hardest and toughest calluses.

The perfect addition for true makeup lovers. Contour, highlight and blend like a professional makeup artist while saving product. The textured surface can be used on makeup-free skin to blot away oils and excess grime, elevating your skincare game.

Cleaning: Your Drop+ is designed to live with you. Simply wash with warm water and soap.

Directions: Apply a small amount of product to your Drop+. Lightly dab, draw or outline onto face and then blend gently into skin. Use the tip to draw sharper lines and to reach corners of eyes. Do not use if punctured.

Borghese Restorative Eye Masks ($32.00 for 6 from Borghese, Neiman Marcus, Macy's and Lord & Taylor): Just in time for the holidays, if you aren't getting as much sleep as you should, and are drinking a bit more than usual, then you might find yourself waking up with puffy eyes and dark circles! If this sounds familiar, then these wonderful Restorative Eye Masks are just what you are looking for!

According to Borghese,

The Restorative Eye Masks nourish, revitalize, soothe and brighten the under-eye area, which is especially sensitive to UV rays. Wrapped individually for on-the-go touch-ups, the masks work in less than 10 minutes to restore a youthful, well-rested appearance. Simply put on the mask first thing in the morning to start the day fresh, in the evening while getting dressed for a night out or just before bed as you pack for that last-minute getaway…and continue on…eyes wide open.The easy-to-use, multi-benefit eye sheet masks nourish, revitalize, soothe and brighten the under eye area. Restoring a youthful appearance for a well-rested, stress-free look. The ideal companion to a Borghese mask treatment.

How to Use: Cleanse skin and pat dry. Remove the clear protective film, place the hydrogel eye mask under the eye and discard the white protective sheet. Relax and leave mask on for 5-15 minutes. remove each mask and gently massage excess product into the skin. Use 1-2 times per week.

MegRhythm Gentle Steam Eye Mask ($10.99-$17.77 for 7 masks from Yes Style Global and Amazon): If you are looking for serious stress relief, MegRhythm Steam Eye Mask, which stays at a comfortable temperature for 10 minutes, bathes "eyes and the delicate eye area in warm steam. This 'steam bath for the eyes' helps with deep release of the tension of the day and soothes the mind.

Features:
• This eye mask utilizes advanced self-heating technology to heighten relaxation and relieve hard working eyes with the warm and soothing sensation of steam heat.
• Steam heat moistens and relaxes hard working eyes.
• Available in three soothing scents in the US: Lavender, Citrus and Unscented.
• The patented, innovative, single-use Steam Eye Mask can be used anytime, anywhere for a one of a kind way to decompress and de-stress while you are on the go.
• Perfect for use during travel, at the office or before bed.

Miss Spa Masks (Available at Miss Spa and Ulta): I am a big fan of Miss Spa Masks, and have been using them for quite a long time. They have a wide variety of masks from which to choose, and they treat an equally wide array of skin concerns. These masks are so affordable that you can collect several and share them with your guests for an at-home holiday spa day! Here are a few of my favorites:

Miss Spa Red Wine Facial Sheet Mask ($7.99 from Ulta): The Miss Spa Red Wine Healing Facial Sheet Mask is the ultimate in defense. Infused with the antioxidant power of red wine extract, this natural silk mask pampers skin as it locks in the nourishing formula to help guard against the damaging effects of free radicals and environmental stress. Rich in tannins and polyphenols, red wine extract and witch hazel water help to neutralize free radicals and fight off skin pollutants, while vitamin B3 and aloe help to soothe and hydrate. Skin is left looking and feeling healthier, refreshed and renewed. Perfect for all skin types. Use weekly as part of your skin care regimen for maximum results.

Miss Spa Hot Chocolate Self-Heating Clay Mask ($6.99 from Ulta): Infused with the soothing power of cocoa fruit extract, this self-heating clay mask is packed with antioxidants to nourish and smooth, while delivering a small caffeine boost to awaken the look of dull, tired skin. The natural clay-based formula gently warms on contact with skin to open up pores and purge away impurities, then cools for skin that looks and feels refreshed and renewed.

Miss Spa Vitamin C Boost Bubble Peeling Pad ($9.99 from Ulta): Infused with vitamin C and AHA's, this unique Bubble Facial Peeling Pad by Miss Spa effectively exfoliates by using a special peeling technology to gently slough away dead skin cells without the irritation. Glycolic and lactic acids work together to re-texturize and smooth skin's surface, while vitamin C and botanical extracts nourish and brighten for skin that looks and feels luminous and radiant. Perfect for dull, dry and flaky skin. Use 2 to 3 times a week as part of your skin care regimen for maximum results.

Miss Spa Coconut Crème Cotton Sheet Mask ($7.99 from Ulta): Infused with the moisturizing power of coconut extract, this silky, biodegradable cotton mask pampers skin as it locks in the hydrating crème formula to help restore skin’s natural moisture balance. A blend of water-binding emollients and pro-vitamin B5 work together to provide continuous, all-day moisturizing without leaving skin greasy. Skin looks and feels soft, supple and renewed with a more youthful, dewy glow.

Miss Spa Multi-Masking Spot Treatment Set ($14.99 from Miss Spa): Hydrogel spot treatments penetrate forehead, chin, and eye contour area with plant and pearl extracts and vitamin C to lift, firm and nourish fine lines and wrinkles all at once for a smoother, younger looking complexion.

Generously sized for everyday use and the bath. Formulated with a 100% vegetable base and enriched with nourishing Shea Butter. L'Occitane works directly with women's Shea-processing collectives in western Africa, supporting economic recovery but also natural harvesting traditions. Non-irritating; suitable for men, women and children. In a range of L'Occitane fragrances.

L'Occitane Immortelle Precious Mist ($19.00 for 1.7 oz from L'Occitane and Sephora): This wonderful floral water is perfect anytime you need a refreshing spritz. Leave one on your bathroom counter for your holiday guests to enjoy as well– they will be thrilled!

According to L'Occitane,

This fresh and light mist is enriched with immortelle floral water. Used on-the-go, it can help to moisturize and revitalize the skin instantly. Spray it over makeup to reset and help it last longer.

This silky cleansing oil removes even the most stubborn make-up, as well as impurities that have built up during the day. It helps smoothing the skin with each use, thanks to its formula enriched with immortelle essential oil, with exceptional anti-aging properties. The complexion looks immediately clean and clear.Efficient on waterproof make-up, this oil is ideal for all skin types.

I recently discovered Beautyproof Skin Care, a wonderful Cruelty-Free skincare company that I am thoroughly obsessed with. I am still testing their skincare, but had to share their body care products with you because they are just amazing.

Beautyproof Lemoncello Body Scrub ($42.00 for 8 oz. from Beautyproof): I am a huge proponent of gentle exfoliation, and this delectably aromatic Lemoncello Body Scrub is such a treat to the senses. It leaves skin remarkable soft, smooth, supple and hydrated. Warning, if you leave it in a shower that you share with others, expect it to disappear sooner than you might like!

According to Beautyproof,

Lemoncello Body Scrub is an exfoliating, smoothing, hydrating and tightening body scrub that helps to improve cellular respiration and circulation.

Exfoliation is the number one beauty ritual for purity of the skin and rebirth. A must for keeping skin youthful. This rich, micro-granulated formula revitalizes surface skin, leaving skin dewy and velvety. Daily use results in skin that is renewed, repaired and regenerated. A natural citrus scent delivers a sense of calm and well-being.

Beautyproof Lemoncello Body Butter ($54.00 for 8 oz. from Beautyproof): This rich, exceedingly moisturizing, ultra-luxe body butter is 100% natural, very nourishing and an unmitigated joy to use. It sinks into the skin quickly, and leaves skin remarkable soft, smooth supple, hydrated and luminous. The delectable Lemoncello aroma is uplifting and intoxicatingly beautiful.

According to Beautyproof,

A rich, luxurious cream that will be your truest ally in your quest for eternally moist and smooth body skin. Presented in a generous bath ritual jar so that you can freely enjoy its intoxicating scent and intense hydration....Lemoncello Body Butter contains the richest, most nourishing oils and nut butters available. Hydrated skin appears younger and fresher skin cells are revealed. Skin is fortified and protected from oxidative stress.

Beautyproof Youth Infuse Body Lotion ($56.00 for 5.5 oz. from Beautyproof): This lightweight, and yet very rich, moisturizing and nourishing lotion is fast absorbing, and it has a light, barely there aroma from which I can detect the tiniest traces of Honeysuckle. It leaves skin soft, smooth, supple, hydrated and lifted. It is a pleasure to the senses, and it is a very effective lotion that does precisely what it claims.

Comvita Manuka Honey UMF 5+ ($27.99 for 8.8 oz. from Comvita, Walgreens and Amazon): I love Manuka Honey and I always have at least one jar on hand. I love to add it to my tea for a little sweetness, and I eat it may the spoonful during the cold season.

According to Comvita,

New Zealand UMF Grade Manuka Honey is gaining worldwide recognition and its reputation continues to grow. UMF stands for ‘Unique Manuka Factor’, a measure of the unique properties found in honey made from the nectar of the Manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium), native to New Zealand. The UMF grading system appraises natural markers found in Manuka honey, and assures purity & quality.

Uses:
• Manuka Honey is a simple, single-ingredient food that can be used in a number of ways including:
• Included as part of your daily beauty routine (natural face masks etc.)
• Ingested for digestive and immune health support (a spoonful a day, is what we say - great for those winter colds).
• Added to tea, toast or smoothies - or any of your food faves - as a daily superfood for natural energy.

Overall Assessment: I hope that you enjoyed my picks, and that this feature gives you some ideas for the holidays. Please be sure to check out what everyone else from the Makeup Wars! Team selected by clicking on their badges below!

OMG, Helen, that is the most comprehensive of holiday gift ideas! Wow. I went to check out the wonderful marble tray since it's on sale today, but I don't have room for it sadly. I adore my Mont Bleu glass files - they'll go in my gift guide too!

You have some amazing products here and I want so many. I should get that detangling brush for my husband as a shower hair brush since it's so compact for our upcoming trip. And believe it or not I finally have an oil diffuser so I'm excited about learning about some scents I can enjoy. So far I have citrus ones that I love. Both of the eye masks you shared are ones I have and love. The Borghese are coming on my trip with me and the Eye Rhythm are getting used at home. One more thing is that the Mont Bleu are the best files ever!!

Thank you, Marcia! The detangling brush is fantastic, and I think that your husband would appreciate its efficacy! I am so excited for you that you have a diffuser and that you have found some scents that you enjoy! Citrus scents are wonderful, I agree!

I love reading all of your comments and interacting with you- so please do not hesitate to share your thoughts, and to ask questions. Remember that what you have to say is of interest to all of us! Always feel free to email me directly as well. SPAM and advertising links will not be published.